RAF Wittering in Cambridgeshire was known as the “Home of the Harrier”. Wittering introduced the VTOL Harrier into the RAF from the late 1960s when 1 Squadron took delivery of the initial operation version, the Harrier GR1.

Throughout the years the original Harrier was developed into the GR3 version which served during the Falklands War, all the way up to the big-winged Harrier GR5 variant, and then the GR7 and GR9 versions which served in Afghanistan. The Harrier was eventually retired from service at the end of 2010.

Throughout these 40 years Wittering was completely associated with Harrier operations.

A visit around the Harrier Heritage Centre was organised in 2013 and we were treated to an in-depth tour of the hangar, with full photographic access. Our informative hosts were on hand to answer our questions and guide us round the exhibits.

This was an extremely interesting visit that is highly recommended, and thanks must go to our hosts for their patience and hospitality.